neodymium152

Neodymium-152 is a synthetic radioactive isotope of neodymium. It is produced in nuclear reactors through various nuclear reactions, often as a byproduct of nuclear fission or through neutron capture by other neodymium isotopes. Its primary decay mode is beta decay, transforming into praseodymium-152, which subsequently decays further. Neodymium-152 has a relatively short half-life, on the order of hours, meaning it decays into more stable isotopes relatively quickly.

Due to its radioactivity and short half-life, neodymium-152 is not found naturally on Earth in significant quantities. Its presence is generally limited to environments where it has been produced, such as nuclear research facilities or areas affected by nuclear events. The study of neodymium-152 is primarily of interest in nuclear physics and radiochemistry, contributing to the understanding of nuclear structure and decay processes. It can also be a minor component in the waste streams from nuclear fuel reprocessing.